Mindful Monday-Perhaps
Perhaps means about the same thing as maybe: things that perhaps could happen might happen, or they might not. When someone asks if you want to do something and you say "Perhaps" — you haven't committed. It's another way of saying "I don't know" or "It's possible” or “maybe”
The words we use make an impact on our communications skills, our character and even the outcome of the discussion or question. Whether they are spoken words or written, the word perhaps can change everything. I think of it when our kids were little, I would say, “maybe” and they knew there was a chance for me to say, ‘yes’ and therefore, they never quit asking! So, be careful with your choice of words at all times! Today, in my conversations I use the word ‘perhaps’ quite a bit. My daughter says it’s because I’m indecisive, perhaps she is right! When you say either ‘yes’ or ‘no’ you are committed to the outcome! Many times I simply say, ‘perhaps’
“Perhaps’ is actually a polite word. For me, it’s not as direct as yes or no, it’s expressing that there is possibility of a different outcome! When asked a question and the person is waiting for a direct answer, I use the word ‘perhaps’ because I’m just not sure, I’m not certain or I’m not ready to commit to the outcome, therefore, I chime in with ‘perhaps’. I think it’s a polite word, one which our character Manners Monkey might even use! Our words are powerful, again, spoken or written, they leave an impact, and, when I commit to a yes or no, I try my best to hold to it. When I use the word ‘perhaps’ it gives me a little more time to think about my answer, my commitment, my ‘good word’ if you will. In short, you kind of buy yourself time to a final answer. Try making a diagram for yourself to help make a final decision, find the good vs. bad, the pros vs. cons, if you will kind of choice. Many times when we write things down it gives us a different perspective which could result in a different outcome.
I truly try to keep my word when I say it, therefore, I do use the word ‘perhaps’ quite a bit. Not only does it provide me more time to think on things, it redirects my thoughts, it offers me a new perspective and it surely allows me to think and am guided in the best direction to help make my choice. In so many situations, there are always choices, different opportunities and always a way to figure out the outcome that you’re hoping for. When your own child is struggling to come up with a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer, try writing it down in a format that your child will understand and use in their comprehension to make decisions and choices in their own life. For what we think, we become and to try to figure out what is the best choice is an individual decision. In the center of the two circles is the word perhaps. Using this format on paper draw two circles, using the right for one word and the left for another, or, you can just draw lines, you choose which best suits you and your comprehension. It’s always fun to go back on this and reflect on why you made the choice you did at the time you did it. You see, our thoughts do tend to change at different times, this is why writing it down really does support your choice. Perhaps you’ll give this a try?
TELL me and I forget, TEACH me and I remember, INVOLVE me and I learn. Benjamin Franklin